TO: Mayor and Commissioners
FROM: Alexis Givings, City Clerk
THROUGH: Terrence R. Moore, ICMA-CM
DATE: April 8, 2025
Title
RESOLUTION NO. 76-25: A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF DELRAY BEACH, FLORIDA, SUPPORTING LEGISLATION THAT REQUIRES HANDS-FREE PHONE USE WHILE DRIVING; PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES.
Body
Recommended Action:
Recommendation
Motion to approve Resolution No. 76-25.
Body
Background:
Distracted driving is a leading cause of motor vehicle crashes in the United States, contributing to thousands of injuries and fatalities each year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that handheld device interaction while driving increases the risk of crashing by 23 times. The NHTSA also reports handheld device interaction while driving is six times more dangerous than driving under the influence of alcohol.
A study from Cambridge Mobile Telematics reported an increase of 17.8% in screen interaction time while driving from 2020 to 2023. The use of handheld devices while driving significantly impairs a driver's ability to safely operate a vehicle, diverting attention from the road and increasing reaction times.
Implementing legislation requiring the hands-free use of handheld devices while driving can reduce the incidence of distracted driving, saving lives and promoting safer roadways for all. Thirty-one (31) states have successfully enacted hands-free laws, resulting in a measurable decrease in crashes and fatalities related to distracted driving. It is the responsibility of our local government to advocate for the safety and well-being of our community.
City Attorney Review:
Approved as to form and legal sufficiency.
Funding Source/Financial Impact:
N/A
Timing of Request:
N/A